Matepe making: Fitting spokes and forging keys

Today Sekuru shared with us his secrets on how to securely attach the bar to the soundboard, using bicycle spokes. In the morning he went to a local market to look for them.

Securing the bar with a spoke

With the bar securely in place, Chawasarira explained the details of key forging.

Putting the first key on the soundboard. The other wires are just spacers

After finishing the first key, it was Samora’s and Stefan’s turn. We wanted our videos not only to show his long-perfected technique, but also his advice on common challenges prospective mbira makers might face.

Stefan putting in his first matepe key

Comments

One response to “Matepe making: Fitting spokes and forging keys”

  1. jake green avatar
    jake green

    Amazing work! Bicycle spokes. truley genius.Keep up the great work!

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